Lisa F.

Obesity & Me

Describe your behavioral and emotional battle with weight control before learning about bariatric surgery.

I had tried many many diets. I would lose anywhere from 20 to 100 pounds. Only to give up and gain back the weight I lost. But the downfall was they always brought their buddies, a few extra pounds. I was not happy with myself therefor it made it hard to be happy with others. I have always been a friendly person and outgoing as long as it was with people I knew. But when I was heavy I declined alot of activities.

What was (is) the worst thing about being overweight?

Finding clothes that fit. Not being able to be physically active like I wanted to. I couldn't run, play ball, or anything that required alot of physical manuvering.

If you have had weight loss surgery already, what things do you most enjoy doing now that you weren't able to do before?

Having an abundance of energy. I really enjoy being able to be physically active. Just a week ago I was doing cartwheels in my front yard with my 4 children and it was not possible a year ago. The best thing is being able to shop for clothes and having a wider variety to choose from.

How did you first find out about bariatric surgery and what were your initial impressions of it?

My best friend and I had looked up weight loss on the internet and it was one of the options. So she and I did our research, even scheduled consultations. She followed through and I backed out because I was a chicken. A year later I did the surgery and have never regretted the choice I made.

What was your stay in the hospital like? How long where you there? What things are most important to bring?

My hospital stay was very pleasant. I went in on Monday and came home on thursday. I really enjoyed the staffs friendly attitude. Something comfortable to wear home and housslippers where the only two things I brought. And I didn't see a need for anything else because they provided everything else.

Did you have any complications from the surgery? If so, how did you deal with them?

NONE

In the weeks after you got your surgery date, how did you feel? How did you cope with any anxiety you might have felt?

I was never anxious. Alot was due to the fact that my best friend had it a year before and I was with every step of the way. So I knew what to expect and how I would feel. I was very excited to begin a new life.

What aftercare support group/program do you have? How helpful/important is this?

Other than daily chats with my best friend, and the support of my family I have none. I feel in my case, that the family support and having someone else who shared this experience, was all I needed.

What is your scar like? Is this what you expected?

I have a ceasarian scar also and it is just an extension upward of it. It is not pretty. But it is not bothersome either. A price I would pay again if asked to.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

My weight loss has slowed down tremendously. I expected this. But I continue to lose.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

I am not sure about treating me differently. But they definately notice me now. I make sure I am noticed now instead of hiding.
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